LA Lakers star LeBron James might become a co-owner of the Boston Celtics, according to a new report. James has held a stake in Liverpool, owned by Fenway Sports Group (FSG), since 2011 and became a partner in FSG in 2021, which also gave him ownership in the Red Sox and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Now, the New York Post reports that FSG and RedBird Capital, closely linked to the four-time NBA champion, are considering a bid for the Celtics. Boston recently secured an NBA-record 18th title by defeating the Dallas Mavericks, but owner Wyc Grousbeck surprised fans by announcing the team’s sale shortly after.
The franchise is reportedly seeking $6 billion, according to sources. At 39, James is still actively playing for the Lakers, which would prevent him from owning a stake in the Celtics while he’s on the court. However, the sale is expected to be a two-step process, with the final 49 percent of the franchise not being sold until 2028.
By that time, James, who would be 43, might be retired and able to be involved with the Celtics.James has also expressed inte rest in starting his own franchise, potentially an expansion team in Las Vegas.
According to The Post, FSG and RedBird are currently involved in the Las Vegas process, but they would likely abandon that plan if they went through with buying the Celtics. The publication also mentioned Celtics minority owner Stephen Pagliuca as a potential buyer. Grousbeck, in a previous interview with CNBC, said he is selling 51 percent of the team now and will put up the remaining 49 percent when he steps down as controlling owner around 2028.
James is currently playing alongside two Celtics players, Jayson Tatum and Derrick White, at the Olympics, with Team USA set to compete for the gold medal against France on Saturday.
‘The King’ has also enjoyed significant success against the Celtics during his career, averaging 28.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 7.1 assists over 59 regular-season games.